Noun
lapsi pl (plural only)
(Christianity, historical) Apostates who renounced their faith under persecution by the Ancient Roman authorities.
Hundreds or even thousands of lapsi were re-admitted this way, against the express wishes of Cyprian and the majority of the Carthaginian clergy, who insisted upon earnest repentance. Source: Internet
Many Christians fell away, and were thereafter referred to as " lapsi ". sfn The majority had signed statements (libelli) certifying that they had sacrificed to the Roman gods in order to avoid persecution or confiscation of property. Source: Internet
The work of the pope was, however, quickly interrupted by the controversies to which the question of the readmittance of the lapsi into the Church gave rise. Source: Internet